Dog breed · Working
Akita
A powerful, quiet guardian from northern Japan, deeply devoted to family and aloof with everyone else.
Large10–13 yearsJapanNeeds more space
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Working
- Origin
- Japan
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 32–59 kg (70–130 lb)
- Height
- 61–71 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–13 years
- Coat
- Thick double coat
- Temperament
- DignifiedReservedLoyalStrong-willed
History
Bred in Akita Prefecture to hunt bear and boar; the loyal Hachikō made the breed world-famous.
Appearance
Heavy-boned with a bear-like head, curled tail and plush coat.
Exercise and activity
An hour daily of calm, structured walking and training.
Care and grooming
Brush weekly and daily during the two enormous annual moults.
Health considerations
- Hip dysplasia
- Autoimmune conditions
- Sebaceous adenitis
- Hypothyroidism
- Gastric torsion